The Season of Hoverboards: A Case Series of Fractures

The aim of this study was to identify the types of pediatric orthopedic extremity fractures that are sustained as a result of hoverboard (self-balancing, self-propelling, 2-wheeled boards) use.

We performed a retrospective review of all orthopedic consultations from the emergency department at our institution from December 1 to 31, 2015. Data was collected on the injury mechanism, fracture location, management, and patient characteristics including sex, age, and hand dominance.

A total of 307 patients with acute extremity injuries were evaluated for a 31-day period. Hoverboard use was identified as the mechanism of injury in 36 patients with 36 fractures (11.7%). The mean age of these 36 patients was 11 years (range, 4-17 y), with most being male (69.4%). There were 35 upper extremity fractures and 1 lower extremity fracture. Eight (22.9%) of the 36 hoverboard patients required closed reduction in the emergency department either under conscious sedation or hematoma block performed with local anesthetic. Four patients (11.1%) required operative treatment.

The overall incidence of extremity fractures due to hoverboard riding seen in our emergency department during the holiday season was relatively high compared with other common childhood activities. The vast majority of these fractures involved the upper extremities. A moderate percentage of these injuries required closed reduction in the emergency department or surgical treatment. Additional studies examining the use of protective equipment while riding hoverboards, time from initial hoverboard use to injury, supervision, and the cost of treating these injuries should be conducted to further elucidate the nature of these injuries and work toward prevention.